Archives: News Stories
In a recent addition to the President’s Corner edition of University Business, President Aaron Kuecker was featured in an article titled “How ‘The Gift of Time’ is Transforming Trinity Christian College.”
The article details the major transformational shift the College has seen in the past few years, highlighting the three critical initiatives at the heart of this shift: Tuition Transparency, Wellbeing, and the Earn, Network, and Learn program.
Click here to read the full article and learn more about how Trinity Christian College is transforming the way we look at higher education.
Mary (Honey) Mathieu ’27
Many Trinity students dream of participating in the Semester in Spain program (SIS). The beautiful sites and opportunities to create memories while studying abroad in Spain make this adventure eagerly anticipated by students.
Spending the summer traveling and improving her Spanish speaking skills for a few weeks has been a dream come true for Trinity student Hannah Boundy. She has been preparing to study abroad in Spain since last fall by completing the necessary paperwork and application requirements. Boundy found the SIS program staff helpful throughout her experience: “They were very attentive and responsive and reminded students of deadlines.” Because of the help she received along the way, Boundy and her peers were able to enjoy an incredible summer semester in Spain.
Although Boundy has had a lot of favorite memories from her time in Spain, the memories all share the common element of developing meaningful relationships with those around her. One such memory involved singing and dancing with her host mother. Another was leading worship at the community’s weekly worship night, Encuentro, which she recalls favorably by sharing, “It is incredible seeing the Lord move in the hearts of students here. Whether that is during worship, a message, or a testimony, the Lord encouraged me throughout that time.” Even while studying abroad, students can further develop their relationship with the Lord, which can be an empowering experience, just as it has been for Boundy.
When asked what advice she would give to students considering studying abroad but unsure if they should, Boundy advises them to “take time to pray, fast, and see where the Lord wants you. If He wants you to study abroad, He will make it happen.”
The Semester in Spain program at Trinity has had another successful summer, and students like Hannah Boundy are grateful to create memories that will remain for a lifetime.
Click here to learn more about the Semester in Spain Program at Trinity Christian College.
Trinity Christian College recently added a full campus tour to its channel on YouTube. This in-depth overview of Trinity’s beautiful campus, nestled in a quaint neighborhood, showcases the diverse spaces catering to various aspects of student life and learning.
Click here to view the video and learn more about how the Trinity Christian College campus is a place where you can thrive in a faith-based community.
The video explores the following spaces:
Jennie Huizenga Memorial Library: A quiet space equipped with two floors filled with study spaces for independent or group study and research.
Dorm Spaces: Each dorm offers cozy living spaces for students and unique layouts and amenities to accommodate different preferences and needs.
Martin and Janet Ozinga Chapel: Serving as a place for community worship that also hosts musical performances and the music department.
Dining Hall: The heart of the campus community, where students gather to share meals, socialize, and connect with friends, faculty, and staff.
Academic Buildings: Housing a variety of classrooms, lecture halls, and specialized facilities, such as labs for hands-on learning experiences.
Art and Communication Center: A vibrant hub for creativity and expression, offering resources and spaces for students interested in visual arts, media production, and communication studies.
Classroom Building Nursing Wing: Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the nursing wing provides a dedicated space for students pursuing studies in healthcare and nursing.
DeVos Athletics & Recreation Center: This center features two gyms, a fitness center, and a bouldering wall, promoting physical wellness, recreation, and athletic events for students.
Schaaf Athletic Complex: Located a short drive from campus, there are expansive outdoor fields for athletic teams such as baseball, softball, and soccer.
Bootsma Bookstore and Café (BBC): A convenient stop for students to purchase textbooks, supplies, and Trinity merchandise while offering a space for studying or grabbing a quick bite or cup of coffee.
With its blend of academic, recreational, and communal spaces, Trinity’s campus provides a holistic environment for students to thrive academically, socially, spiritually, and personally throughout all four seasons.
-Josue Manishimwe ’25
Trinity Christian College not only seeks to ensure that students get a good-quality education that contributes to student knowledge but, most importantly, that students are offered skills that make them marketable in their field of work and result in greater employability and economic mobility.
“The Computing and Data Analytics (CDA) department works to help students thrive by giving them practical skills for computing and data jobs while also challenging them to think about how they can serve God and others through those jobs,” says Dr. Karl Schmitt, Data Analytics Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Data Analytics at Trinity.
The CDA’s computer science programs keep pace with the ever-changing field and its connections to other areas. They offer a variety of majors, from a bachelor’s in computing to specific tracks like data analysis and design. All these programs are designed to make graduates successful after graduation. Students can customize their education by adding minors in related fields like business, math, communication, or media, giving them an all-rounded skill set and boosting their job prospects.
Academic acumen, teaching methods, and support from the computer science faculty at Trinty all play key roles in a student’s life. Having qualified professors with real-life IT experience gives students more opportunities for success. The College’s student-oriented approach, paired with the small student-to-teacher ratio, creates an environment where understanding and connection thrive, enabling professors to tailor their content to what students can easily implement.
Trinity goes above and beyond to support its students as they spend long hours behind a computer for research, coding, and homework. To support this work, the library computers are accessible from early morning to late evening on weekdays and weekends, providing an environment for individual study and collaborative projects. They are also equipped with the necessary resources, ensuring students have uninterrupted access to tools crucial for their academic pursuits.
Professional opportunities to work on campus as a student complement what is learned in the classroom with jobs that seek to give students a sense of what a professional career can provide. Engaging students in this manner establishes a bridge between classwork and the professional world.
The computer science major at Trinity offers a quality education that seeks to prepare students for a diverse, fast-moving world through a dedicated and supportive faculty that provides all the resources to ensure success. Click here to learn more.
– Mary (Honey) Mathieu ’27
Trinity student, Hope McIntosh, was selected as the Artist for Worship at this year’s Christian Reformed Church’s Synod. Her art was featured in the Synod’s worship services, projections, and printed materials, among others. This is an amazing accomplishment by yet another wonderful Trinity student!
McIntosh is a senior student who is majoring in Studio Art with a Christian Ministry minor. She is originally from Kansas City and loves to see her faith shine through her artwork. The art piece selected is a plant image that resembles God and His steady presence. The biblical truth that God does not leave or forsake His children is reflected in Hope’s work for Synod. This is a powerful message for all believers.
Through her time at Trinity thus far, Hope has made a tremendous impact on the lives of those who are blessed to know her. She is a joyful presence on campus and is an inspiration to her peers. Her artwork attests to her faithful diligence. As a Christian college, Trinity is proud to see students using their talents for good. Sharing her faith journey through art, McIntosh sets an example of what it means to be a faithful steward to not only the Trinity Christian community but to the world at large.
Art classes at Trinity prepare students well to use their artistic gifts to give back to God and their communities. Professors continuously guide their students to become the best artists and people that they can be. This supportive learning environment, composed of passionate mentors, allows students to further grow their love for art while discovering more about themselves.
The College works hard to develop the whole student as they receive an education at Trinity. Using their gifts to further grow in the vocation God has called them to is one of the many ways students at Trinity receive a well-rounded education. Learning is not limited to the classroom, as all majors have numerous opportunities to network and publish their work on and off campus. Student growth through networking and personal discovery is strongly emphasized at Trinity because it better prepares students for the world.
Trinity is fortunate to have McIntosh as part of its community. The College is extremely proud of her as she uses her art for a greater purpose. Our students, like Hope, are extremely passionate and will go on to do great things in the world.
– Mary (Honey) Mathieu ’27
Trinity is excited to announce that the College will be hosting the K-Love Meet Every Listener Tour on July 19, 2024.
This event will consist of two parts. From 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., K-Love DJs Carlos and Amy will be joined by Micah Tyler to take photos with guests and give out free treats at the Base Community Café, located at 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL 60609. No RSVP is required for this part of the day.
In the evening, a free concert filled with songs and stories, presented by Micah Tyler, Carlos, and Amy, will take place at Trinity Christian College, located at 6601 W. College Dr. Palos Heights, IL 60463. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the acoustic performance officially starting at 7 p.m. Seating is limited, so be sure to reserve a required free ticket at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meet-every-listener-concert-chicago-oh-tickets-923811092847 and arrive early, as a ticket does not guarantee seating availability.
The College is honored to host the K-Love Meet Every Listener Tour and cultivate a space for Carlos, Amy, and Micah Tyler to meet their guests!
– Mary (Honey) Mathieu ’27
June is recognized as Men’s Mental Health Month.
Spreading awareness about men’s mental health is critical. Many males struggle in silence despite being worthy of having someone listen to them, and it is easy for men to feel as if they must carry the heavy weight known as mental health alone. The reality, however, is that countless individuals, both male and female, struggle with their mental health despite the stigma. May celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month but June is now designated as Men’s Mental Health Month because this aspect of mental health is not as openly talked about. Starting a conversation about men’s mental health is an important step towards progress. Trinity student, Gabe Wahlsmith, emphasizes the importance of Men’s Mental Health Month by stating, “It is a time for reflection on a subject that people sometimes overlook.” Every individual deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported not only in June but year-round.
Trinity offers numerous wellness initiatives. Wellbeing Wednesdays are unique to the college and allow students to spend Wednesdays taking care of themselves instead of attending classes. Some students use this day to catch up on sleep, socialize with friends, or pursue their hobbies. Others choose to improve their financial wellness by working either paid internships through Trinity’s Co-op experience or an on-campus job. Free yoga and mindfulness classes are also offered throughout the year to help students become the healthiest version of themselves. Through intramurals and other team sports, students can exercise while bonding with their peers. By taking care of one’s physical health, mental health also becomes prioritized. Spiritual well-being is further addressed on campus through worship nights, chapel services, and bible studies. These wellness activities emphasize Trinity’s focus on nurturing the whole person which allows students to learn how to best care for themselves in all areas of their lives.
If you are struggling with your mental health or know someone who is, please reach out. You are loved and deserve to feel that love. Know that it is okay to not be okay. Asking for help is one of the strongest things you will ever do.
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
– Mary (Honey) Mathieu ’27
Trinity’s Blueprints Weekend occurred on Friday, June 21 and Saturday, June 22 this year. This tradition welcomes incoming students through informational sessions and fun activities. Students are exposed to campus culture and meet their fellow peers before the start of classes. This allows for a smoother transition to college life for freshman students and extra support for transfer students as they adapt to life at the College.
Faculty, staff, and student leaders all come together to welcome the newest students to their home away from home during this fun-filled weekend. This annual event is eagerly planned and implemented by a collection of people who are passionate about providing support to incoming students and their families. As Trinity’s Director of Admissions Marketing and Campus Experience, Erin Nagelkirk, states, “Each year, so much anticipation surrounds Blueprints. Our campus community eagerly anticipates meeting our new students, and these incoming students eagerly anticipate this time to be on campus as official Trinity Trolls.” Whether a student is beginning their college journey or continuing their education at a new school, change can be challenging, so having members of the College’s community support these students as they transition to life at Trinity is one of the main goals of Blueprints.
One large component of this weekend is teaching students how to thrive at Trinity. Adjusting to academia at the collegiate level may be difficult for first-year students. By hearing from current students and receiving advice from faculty and staff at the College, incoming students learn helpful tips regarding how to achieve academic success while starting or continuing their educational journey. Students are set up to thrive from the start because Trinity’s faculty and staff truly want to see their students succeed. This support can make an impactful difference for both freshman and transfer students as they start their time at Trinity.
During bonding activities throughout the weekend, incoming students have the chance to meet new classmates and form meaningful friendships. While academics are important at Trinity, so is developing the whole person. Part of ensuring that students flourish at the College is nourishing their social well-being. By providing students with opportunities to form connections with their peers, Trinity helps ease student worries and fears surrounding whether they will belong on campus. Any transition can be stressful, so being able to welcome students with these types of bonding experiences is something Blueprints leaders are proud to provide.
Welcome home, class of 2028! Trinity is proud to have you as part of a community that wants to see you thrive. Go Trolls!
– Mary (Honey) Mathieu ’27
With Trinity’s campus being located just outside of Chicago, the College has several faculty and staff members who live in the city. Making the commute shows their admirable dedication. Trinity is proud to have these faculty and staff as part of its community because of the difference they make in the lives of their students.
Dr. Lenore Knight-Johnson is a Professor of Sociology and the Director of the Honors Program at Trinity. She is one of the College’s dedicated faculty members who choose to work at Trinity while living in Chicago. Knight-Johnson has lived on the north side of the city for over thirty years and decided to put down roots with her family there. She loves Chicago because of “the city’s commitment to maintaining green space and amazing neighborhood parks that are truly public spaces which everyone can enjoy.” This reminds her of the value of “investing in people and their well-being as a top priority, and not developing every inch of the urban landscape.” Going for walks, runs, or bike rides are activities that are enjoyable for individuals living in Chicago due to the beautiful scenery. There are many unique neighborhoods to pass through and incredible restaurants to try out. The city truly is beautiful in countless ways which makes it a wonderful place to live.
Even with the longer commute, Dr. Knight-Johnson chooses to work at Trinity. When asked why, she states that she “loves the collaborative spirit of the Trinity community – the faculty community in particular – and the chance to get to know students well in smaller classes.” The College’s smaller class size allows professors and students to form meaningful connections with each other and their peers. At many institutions, it can be easy to get lost in a sea of people. As a result, professors might not know their students by name, but at Trinity, professors get to know their students beyond their names. Knight-Johnson is one of the many professors at the College who wants to see her students thrive both in the classroom and beyond. The work she does is greatly appreciated by both her students and colleagues.
All faculty and staff work hard to ensure that Trinity is a safe place for students to learn and grow. They truly are making a difference in the lives of their students, and some are proud community members of both Trinity and Chicago. The College greatly values its Chicago connection!
-Mary (Honey) Mathieu ‘27
As a transfer student with a quadruple major in criminal justice, English, social work, and psychology, I can attest to the many opportunities Trinity provides its students. School has always been my safe place, and Trinity has provided me with the academic rigor I had hoped for in my classes upon transferring, especially in Honors Program courses.
My classes challenge me in ways that I have never been challenged before. One of my favorite classes that I have taken at Trinity thus far is Restorative Justice with Dr. Connelly. In this course, we learn about restorative justice principles and practices, which will be extremely helpful for my future career as a social worker, advocate, and author who hopes to work in the child welfare field.
My favorite part about the College is its Wellbeing Wednesdays Initiative. I have struggled with my mental health, and having wellness promoted on campus was one of the major reasons I chose to transfer to Trinity. Having Wednesdays off from classes allows me to maintain a schedule filled with opportunities.
During my first semester here, I took advantage of the Co-Op Program, which allowed me to have a paid internship with Streetwise in Chicago. I have also worked as a Student Writer for the Marketing Department and as a Library Assistant. Regarding extracurriculars, I am the Co-President of the Criminal Justice Club and hope to soon start a Mental Health Club on campus. There are a lot of opportunities to get involved in on campus—you just have to find your place.
My story is unique as I decided to transfer after completing four years at my former institution. I took this leap of faith because I wanted a school that would help me grow academically, spiritually, and mentally. Finding God again in the little things has been a great joy as He is present through the multitude of weekly spiritual growth opportunities available on campus. I have also met incredible professors who walk faithfully with their students through their academic journeys and friends who are equally as passionate as I am about making a difference in the world.
Trinity is the place to be if you are looking for growth. The College challenges you in the best ways possible while still recognizing that growth requires support along the way. Faculty and staff have helped shape my experience as a Troll, as they truly see students as people, not numbers. This is why Trinity is special.